Call for proposals: Research on Pandemic Recovery, Grants up to $500,000

About the Project:

The past four years have seen the Evidence Project by CRPE tracking the impact of the pandemic on students and school systems’ recovery efforts. Unfortunately, these efforts are far from complete and face increasing challenges. Academic achievement remains below pre-pandemic levels, chronic absenteeism has nearly doubled, and districts are struggling financially. With the end of federal funds looming, it is more urgent than ever to address learning recovery, chronic absenteeism, and financial challenges.

Research Areas:

1. Interventions for Learning Recovery: What challenges do districts face in implementing interventions for learning recovery, and how are they overcoming them? What new interventions are promising or effective, especially for students most impacted by the pandemic?
2. Root Causes of Chronic Absenteeism: What factors are driving high rates of chronic absenteeism, and do current interventions address them adequately?
3. Financial Strategies for Districts: How are districts balancing reducing expenditures with preserving student experiences and learning?

Funding:

The Walton Family Foundation is offering grants of up to $500,000 for 18-month projects in these research areas.

• Priority will be given to projects that delve into root causes, highlight the effects on disproportionately impacted students, and provide actionable findings for policymakers and the public.

Timeline:

Letters of Intent are due by August 30, 2024, with full proposals due by October 7, 2024.

Researchers are encouraged to review the full RFP before starting their submissions.

Read more and Apply!

Previous Work:

This is the second round of pandemic recovery sub-grants from the Evidence Project. The first round focused on improving opportunities for students in high school, postsecondary institutions, and work training programs. Dr. Morgan Polikoff from USC will be leading the review of grant submissions in this round.